Chapter 4 I spent two hours on a crucial phone call in Callums study . When I emerged , they still hadnt returned . Once , I would have been worried sick . Now , I only felt bitter irony . In the living room, my phone buzzed with a message from an unknown number . The attached photo showed Mila and Sophie hand in hand , running toward Callum on the beach . Their faces glowed with joy beneath the sparklers light the perfect family portrait . Without me . The next message confirmed my suspicions : Seven years of deception must make you furious . I hope youll make the right choice . Sophies words were carefully crafted , but her meaning was clear : step aside gracefully . Before I could respond , the front door opened . Callum and Mila entered , guilt flickering briefly across their matching faces before Mila thrust a portrait into my hands . Mommy , Daddy drew this for you ! I studied the portrait of myself , unchanged from years ago . The artists care was evident in every stroke . Once , it would have moved me to tears . Dont you like it , Aria ? Callum asked softly . I looked up at him , catching the faint trace of Sophies signature perfume . Callum , why do you smell like perfume ? If hed been honest then , perhaps we could have ended things amicably . Instead , he glanced at Mila , who gave an almost imperceptible nod . See , Mommys upset because shes overthinking again , he said smoothly . The framing shop lady was wearing perfume it rubbed off when we were paying . Isnt that perfectly normal ? Mommy , youre being paranoid ! Mila planted her hands on her hips , face scrunched in rehearsed indignation . Aria , I had our daughter with me , Callum added . Even if you dont trust me , surely you trust your own child ? He nudged Mila forward . My daughter , with eyes so like my own , met my gaze without flinching . Like father , like daughter natural born liars . 1.8 % Chapter 4 When I remained silent , Mila tugged Callum toward her room , muttering , Poor Daddy , Mommys so jealous even after we explained everything ! Another message arrived : If you doubt me , I can prove it . Within three minutes , your beloved husband and daughter will make up an excuse to come see me . Right on cue , they emerged from Milas room , nearly colliding with me at the door . Aria ! Milas a bit upset about her birthday . Im taking her out for the night to cheer her up . Get some rest , okay ? Since Mommy doesnt like my drawing , Ill draw for someone else instead ! Mila declared as they left . It sounded like a childs tantrum , but I knew the truth shed probably drawn countless portraits for Sophie already . I watched them leave , and a final message arrived : Still unconvinced ? Tomorrow , 8 AM , Starlight Park . See for yourself . Discover our latest featured short drama reel. Watch now and enjoy the story!